A study was conducted to analyze the structural and electrochemical characterization of binary, ternary and quaternary platinum alloy catalysts for methanol electro-oxidation. The platinum and platinum alloy samples were prepared by arc-melting pressed pellets of platinum, ruthenium, osmium and iridium powders. Results indicated that the catalysts supported a nanocrystalline face-centered cubic phase. Findings also showed that the addition of iridium accelerated the activation of the C-H bonds in methanol.

Characterization of the Mn oxidation states in photosystem II by K-beta X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy

Article Abstract:

Research was conducted to examine the nature of the Mn oxidation states involved in photosynthetic oxygen evolution using K-beta X-ray fluorescence spectra since studies using X-ray absorption and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy has always been controversial. The alternative method has been recorded on the dark-adapted S1 state and the hydroquinone-reduced state. Results are compatible with models involving the conversion of Mn(III)2Mn(IV)2 to Mn(II)2Mn(IV)2 clusters.

Active states of Pd and Cu in carbon-supported Wacker-type catalysts for low-temperature CO oxidation

Article Abstract:

Research into carbon-supported Wacker-type catalysts that show high activities in CO oxidation at ambient temperatures is presented. The active states of palladium and copper were a molecular Pd(II) species coordinated with chlorine ion and Cu(II) compounds.